For anyone who has ever joined in a wordless chant at a live performance by a major rock band, there’s a debt of gratitude owed to Arcade Fire. Their anthemic tracks from the early 2000s, such as The Suburbs and Wake Up, skillfully blended a literary touch with themes of liberal progressivism, wrapped in melodies that drew mass appeal reminiscent of Oasis. This influence has echoed through the works of bands like Coldplay and Mumford & Sons.

Now, Arcade Fire returns with their first album in three years, titled Pink Elephant. Unfortunately, this new offering feels strangely muted and lacks the compelling sense of moral urgency and grand vision that once characterized their music.

One can’t help but wonder if this shift is connected to the allegations of sexual misconduct against lead singer Win Butler in 2022, which he has firmly denied. The album opens with a vague mumble that sets the vibe: Pink Elephant appears melancholic and subdued, seemingly attempting to restore Arcade Fire’s image following a challenging period.

On the title track, Butler plaintively sings, “Take your mind off me,” while paradoxically inviting listeners to engage with him. The track Open Your Heart or Die Trying opts for complete silence, replaced by an ambient electronic din. Songs like Ride or Die present a form of whimsical acoustic indie folk that feels overly familiar, while Circle of Trust trudges along with uninspiring beats, akin to a dance track suited for the rhythmically challenged.

Yet, within this collection, several standout songs emerge. Year of the Snake captures the essence of what Arcade Fire does best, presenting alternative music that aims for stadium-filling grandeur. Butler’s wife and co-band leader, Régine Chassagne, softly whispers, “It’s a season of change. And if you feel strange it’s probably good,” accompanied by a driving guitar riff and an understated beat. Butler responds with the optimistic declaration, “I’m a real boy, my heart’s full of love. It’s not made out of wood.” The track Stuck in My Head also shines, featuring the poignant line, “It’s a mess in my bedroom, a mess in my car, a mess in my head, a mess in my heart,” effectively transforming personal turmoil into a singable refrain.

Conversely, some lyrics exhibit a troubling lack of self-awareness. For instance, in I Love Her Shadow, Butler sings, “I wanna make new constellations from your permanent scars. We never met but I remember who you are.” Given the context of the allegations, this line can come across as unsettling.

Overall, Pink Elephant reflects a band that has seemingly lost its momentum, entering a phase of introspection while pondering their next steps. (Columbia) ★★★☆☆